Math Pathways

Math Pathways

1. BACKGROUND OF KANSAS MATH PATHWAYS

Traditional postsecondary mathematics, including requiring college algebra for most majors, and requiring traditional prerequisite remediation that does not count toward a baccalaureate degree, impose unnecessary obstacles to degree completion for Kansas students. 

According to KBOR’s  Developmental Education Data Report, too few students are completing a traditional prerequisite developmental course and a general education math course within a two-year period.  Further, according to a 2015 Report published by the Mathematical Association of America, A Common Vision for Undergraduate Mathematical Sciences Programs in 2025, “mathematics courses are the most significant barrier to degree completion in both STEM and non-STEM fields.”

The Kansas Board of Regents seeks to implement proven practices that remove these obstacles and advance access, affordability, success, and completion (all components of the Board’s strategic plan, Building a Future), by working with the Charles A. Dana Center at the University of Texas at Austin on Mathematics Pathways. 

Kansas is now one of the 22 states participating in the Launch Years Initiative, which supports the scaling of mathematics pathways from high school through postsecondary education and into the workplace, aligned to students’ goals and aspirations.  The Dana Center provides resources and support and holds an annual convening at which participating states can share ideas, best practices, and experiences related to the initiative.

2. COMPONENTS OF KANSAS MATH PATHWAYS

Kansas Math Pathways is a comprehensive, student-centered initiative that addresses structural barriers in mathematics education by aligning math instruction with students’ academic and career goals. The initiative consists of several interconnected components designed to support institutional implementation and ensure student success. Key components include:

Gateway Math Courses

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Gateway math courses serve as the foundational entry points into postsecondary mathematics, replacing the traditional one-size-fits-all approach. These courses are designed to match students’ intended programs of study, increasing both relevance and the likelihood of success.

Math Pathways Professional Development & Implementation

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To support successful implementation, the Kansas Board of Regents offers a statewide professional development series for faculty, advisors, and administrators. The training series features both national and local experts and is designed to equip stakeholders with the knowledge, tools, and collaboration opportunities needed to scale Math Pathways across the system. Professional development offerings are updated regularly, and session recordings from past academic years are available in the online Professional Development Resource Bank.

Multiple Measures Placement

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Recognizing that a single test score should not determine a student’s academic future, Kansas Math Pathways supports placement decisions based on multiple measures. This approach ensures more accurate course placement and increases the likelihood that students begin in—and succeed in—gateway math courses.

3. KANSAS MATH PATHWAYS TASKFORCE 

Membership

• Rachel Bates - Cowley Community College
• Kindra Wells - Emporia State University
• Keith Dreiling - Fort Hays State University
• Ryan Ruda - Garden City Community College
• Tricia Paramore - Hutchinson Community College
• Whitney Turner - Johnson County Community College
• Gabe Kerr - Kansas State University
• Brian Koch - Manhattan Area Technical College
• Tim Flood - Pittsburg State University
• Kim Warren - University of Kansas
• Sarah Cook - Washburn University
• Nancy Krehbiel - Wichita State University
• Jolene Goodheart-Peterson - KSDE
• Jennifer Hamlet - KSDE
• Jennifer Bonds-Raacke - KBOR
• Mistie Knox - KBOR
• Rusty Monhollon - KBOR
• Sam Christy-Dangermond - KBOR

Fall 2025 Tentative Meeting Dates:

• August 29
• September 26
• October 24
• November 21

4. PERFORMANCE AGREEMENTS 

Math Pathways are a critical component in the new performance agreements. 

Sample Performance Agreement AY 2024-2026